Ever been stranded with a broken-down car in Singapore? Car breakdowns never come with a warning, making towing services an inevitable part of vehicle ownership. Here’s your essential guide to navigating towing services and fees in Singapore, helping you prepare before emergencies strike.
Factors That Affect the Average Cost to Tow a Car
Distance and Location Considerations
The further your vehicle needs to be towed, the higher the cost. Local towing within your neighbourhood typically costs less than transport across Singapore. Most car towing services charge a base fee plus per-kilometre rates, while some areas might incur additional charges due to accessibility or traffic conditions.
Vehicle Size and Weight Type Required
From compact cars to large SUVs, your vehicle’s size plays a crucial role in determining towing fees. Heavier vehicles require specialised equipment and more powerful tow trucks. A standard car towing service can handle most sedans, but larger vehicles like trucks may need premium services, affecting the final price.
Time of Day and Urgency of Service
Late-night breakdowns or holiday emergencies often command premium rates. While regular tow car service during business hours maintains standard pricing, after-hours calls typically include surcharges. Weekend and public holiday services might cost more due to limited crew availability.
Type of Towing
Car towing methods vary based on your vehicle’s condition and situation. Flatbed towing, ideal for luxury or damaged cars, offers maximum protection but costs more. Wheel-lift towing, though more affordable, suits specific scenarios. Emergency services usually carry higher rates than scheduled towing, as they prioritise rapid response and immediate dispatch of available crews.
How Much Does Car Towing Cost in Singapore?
Wondering about towing costs in Singapore? From basic service rates to emergency fees, here’s a clear breakdown of what you can expect to pay:
Standard Towing Service Rates
Basic towing starts from $80 for two-wheel and $140 for four-wheel towing of standard vehicles. Van towing begins at $90, with additional charges applying for restricted areas like Jurong Island and checkpoints.
Flatbed Towing Costs
Sports cars and luxury vehicles require flatbed towing, ranging from $160 to $310. Electric vehicles have special rates: $110 for two-wheel and $160 for four-wheel towing, reflecting their unique handling requirements.
Emergency and 24-hour Towing Fees
Expect additional charges of $10 for night services (7 PM-7 AM) and public holidays. Emergency situations requiring special equipment like winching or crane services start from $20, with rates increasing based on complexity.
Quick Reference Guide:
- Standard Cars: $80-$140
- Sports/Luxury: $160-$310
- EVs: $110-$160
- Vans: $90-$160
Note: Prices vary by provider and specific requirements.
Your Go-to Guide For Car Towing Cost in 2025
How Do I Choose A Reliable And Affordable Car Towing Service In Singapore?
Selecting the right towing service can feel overwhelming, especially during an emergency. Here’s what to look for to ensure you get reliable service at a fair price, saving you both stress and money.
Researching Reputable Towing Companies
A trustworthy car towing service should have proper business registration and comprehensive insurance coverage. Focus on established companies that maintain professional websites and provide 24/7 hotlines. Check if they have a physical office and clear service terms.
Comparing Quotes and Service Offerings
Contact multiple tow car services to compare their rates and packages. While price matters, focus on companies offering transparent pricing without hidden fees. Consider their response time, service area coverage, and whether they provide additional roadside assistance.
Reading Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Former customers often share specific details about their towing experiences—from initial call to final drop-off. Look for comments about careful vehicle handling, punctuality, and how well companies dealt with unexpected situations. These real experiences provide valuable insights beyond basic service ratings.
What Additional Services Might I Need Alongside Towing, And How Much Do They Cost?
Roadside Assistance And Breakdown Support
Basic roadside help starts from $50 for jump-starts. Services include quick diagnostic checks and minor repairs to get you moving again. Some towing companies offer bundled packages that combine towing with roadside assistance for better value.
Car Battery Replacement Pricing
Battery services include testing, jump-starting, and replacement if needed. New battery installation typically ranges from $90-$200, depending on your car model. Many services include free battery testing to determine if you need a replacement.
Tyre Change and Repair Costs
Flat tyre services can range from $50-$80 for basic replacements or patching. Emergency tyre changes on expressways might incur additional charges. Some companies offer mobile tyre services, bringing replacement tyres directly to your location.
Tyre Change And Repair Costs
Flat tyre services cost around $70 for basic replacements or patching. Emergency tyre changes on expressways might incur additional charges. Some companies offer mobile tyre services, bringing replacement tyres directly to your location.
What Should I Know About Emergency Towing Services in Singapore?
When vehicle emergencies strike, knowing your emergency towing options can make all the difference. Here’s what you need to know.
24-hour Towing Availability and Response Times
Emergency towing operates round-the-clock, with most companies maintaining standby crews throughout Singapore. While response times vary by location and traffic conditions, reputable services prioritise swift assistance during off-peak hours and late nights.
Express Towing Options for Urgent Situations
Express services offer priority dispatch for urgent situations, particularly useful when stranded in high-risk areas or during emergencies. These services guarantee faster arrival times through dedicated emergency response teams and optimised routing.
Island-wide Recovery Services Coverage
Recovery services extend across Singapore, including restricted access areas and checkpoints. However, certain locations require special clearance or permits. Always inform the service provider about your exact location to ensure they have proper access authorisation.
How Does The Car Towing Process Work in Singapore?
When you need a tow, here’s what to expect:
- Make the call: Provide your location, car details, and describe your situation. The operator will confirm service availability and estimated cost.
- Wait for arrival: The tow truck typically arrives within 30-45 minutes. Keep your hazard lights on and stay in a safe spot.
- Vehicle inspection: Driver checks your car’s condition and confirms the towing method needed. Have your vehicle documents ready.
- Vehicle secured: Your car is carefully loaded onto the tow truck. Double-check the destination address with the driver.
- Delivery and payment: Once at the destination, your vehicle is safely unloaded. Complete payment and receive your receipt.
Steps Involved In Requesting A Tow
Arranging a tow is straightforward when you know what to do. Start by calling a reliable towing service and sharing your location and vehicle details. While waiting for the tow truck, ensure your hazard lights are on and you’re in a safe spot. Once help arrives, the process moves quickly from inspection to secure loading, and finally to your chosen destination.
Learn more: What To Do If Your Car Breaks Down In The Middle of The Road?
Conclusion
Understanding towing services and costs in Singapore doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By knowing your options, typical rates, and what to expect during the process, you can handle vehicle emergencies with confidence. Remember, the key is choosing a reliable service that balances cost with quality support.
Need reliable towing or roadside assistance? Shenton Recovery offers 24/7 professional towing services islandwide, handling everything from standard vehicle recovery to complex towing situations. Whether you’re facing a breakdown or need emergency assistance, contact us for swift, professional service you can count on.
